“I Thought I Was Having A Heart Attack”: Kaze
Sekhukhune United coach Cedric Kaze praised his players’ fighting spirit and mental strength after they overcame an early setback to progress to the MTN8 semifinals following a thrilling quarter-final against AmaZulu.
Babina Noko secured their place in the last four after edging AmaZulu 4-3 in a seven-goal thriller at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday, with Vuyo Letlapa scoring the decisive goal in extra time.
Sekhukhune were forced to come from behind after conceding an early goal, but Kaze’s side showed resilience to fight their way back into the contest and level the scores on the stroke of half-time.
The visitors then appeared to take control in the second half when they scored twice within two minutes, in the 52nd and 54th minutes, to establish a 3-1 lead.
However, AmaZulu responded with two quick goals of their own, ensuring the match continued to swing from one side to the other before Sekhukhune eventually found the winning goal in extra time.
Kaze admitted that the dramatic nature of the encounter made it difficult for him to enjoy the match, joking that the supporters and television viewers probably had more fun than he did.
“I think that the fans and those who were watching on TV had more fun than me because of everything that happened during the game,” he said.
“But as well, I have to commend, I have to commend my players. They had such a big attitude, such a big commitment in everything that they did.
“Because even after conceding an early goal, we kept our minds very clear; we also kept our intentions clear. And, you know, I know that I have players that are ready to fight.
“And, you know, they showed what they are capable of, and I’m very happy for them, for the club, for the fans.”
The former Kaizer Chiefs coach also admitted that the seven-goal contest tested his emotions, particularly after Sekhukhune had taken the lead before AmaZulu fought back.
Kaze said he feared for his health as the game changed rapidly, with neither side able to establish control for long periods.
“Let me just take the win because I almost felt that I’m going to have a heart attack with the situation of the game changing so quickly when we are up 2-1 and you feel that you have got the game in your hands,” he added.
“But, you know, things change very quickly in a football game.
“But, you know, it’s a cup game and, you know, that’s how they say that, you know, the dreams of cup games are like this, and I’m very happy today that we could go through.”
The victory means Sekhukhune advance to the MTN8 semifinals, where they will face defending champions Orlando Pirates.
Babina Noko will host the first leg, while the second leg is scheduled to take place at Orlando Amstel Arena. The dates, venues and kick-off times for the two semifinal fixtures are yet to be confirmed.
